AFRICAN FARMERS are to benefit from an international academic partnership between Morocco's Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) and two of the UK’s leading agricultural research institutions, Rothamsted Research and Cranfield University.

The partnership, supported by one of the largest exporters of phosphate fertilisers in the world, the OCP Group, comes on the back of agreement between the UK and Morocco to strengthen collaboration in education, research and innovation. Up to 20 'early career' researchers in the agricultural sector will be supported both in Morocco and in the UK through the partnership.

The initial phase will focus on the delivery of seven agricultural research projects and the creation of a Centre for Doctoral Training, supporting the development of the next generation of Moroccan scientists and engineers.

Secretary general of UM6P, Hicham El Habti, said: “OCP, through its R and D programme and in close co-operation with the MVPU, is developing fertilisers that are specific to the needs of African soils and crops, as well as locally-appropriate service models for African farmers to have reliable, affordable access to these inputs and related products. This vital partnership with Rothamsted and Cranfield University will support the acceleration of this strategy to help African farmers become not only more productive, but also more prosperous.”

Director and chief executive of Rothamsted Research, Professor Achim Doberman, said: “The development of sustainable agriculture across Morocco, and Africa as a whole, is vital to the continent’s food security and economic growth. The challenges are immense, but by nurturing the talent and enthusiasm of young scientists, I am confident that there can be bright future both for Africa’s famers and its environment. By combining the cutting-edge expertise of Rothamsted and Cranfield, with the drive and vision of UM6P, we can play a major role in delivering this and we are excited about contributing our unique expertise.”